“Small Things Like This” is a drama movie starring Cillian Murphy with Eileen Walsh, Michelle Fairley, and Emily Watson.
“Small Things Like This” is an Irish drama that plunges viewers into a world of pervasive melancholy. Set in County Wexford, Ireland, the film stars Cillian Murphy in a role that demands his full dramatic range.
The narrative follows Bill Furlong, a man whose encounter with a girl in a nearby convent forces him to confront his traumatic past. This discovery serves as a catalyst, unraveling the threads of Furlong’s life and the societal fabric around him.
Murphy’s portrayal of Furlong is central to the film’s impact. His performance carries the weight of the character’s inner turmoil, often conveying more through silent expressions than dialogue. The actor’s presence dominates the screen, overshadowing the supporting cast in a way that feels intentional rather than unbalanced.
Visually, “Small Things Like This” is a study in restrained cinematography. Each frame is meticulously composed to reflect the protagonist’s deep-seated sadness and the oppressive atmosphere of his surroundings. The muted color palette and careful lighting choices contribute significantly to the film’s somber mood.
The movie tackles weighty themes, including religious institutions’ influence, moral constraints, and the inescapable nature of one’s past and environment. It’s a slow-burning narrative that relies heavily on visual storytelling, often prioritizing imagery over dialogue to convey its message.
“Small Things Like This” is not a film for those seeking light entertainment. Its pacing is deliberate, its tone consistently somber. While it may not appeal to mainstream audiences or garner widespread acclaim, it offers a deeply personal exploration of Irish life and the human condition. Viewers willing to engage with its melancholic atmosphere and subtle storytelling may find it a thought-provoking, if not entirely uplifting, cinematic experience.
The Cast
